Peace, Democracy and Rights

In many countries, democratic rights and freedoms are at risk. Unions play a key role in defending them. The ITUC Global Rights Index details a rise in the number of countries where conflict, authoritarianism and right-wing governments are destroying freedom of association, collective bargaining and the right to strike.

Through the solidarity of our affiliates, support for countries at risk is central to our work. Organising for migrant rights and the elimination of slavery in all its forms is fundamental to ensure democratic rights and freedom for all workers.

We know that peace is built on social justice and requires social protection, just wages and safe and secure work with the guarantee of fundamental rights and the rule of law. Peace, democracy and rights is a foundation for realising the Sustainable Development Goals. Labour activists are both human rights defenders and peace builders and this must be recognised. Rather than investing in social infrastructure to safeguard peace and stability – the arms race is back on and our governments are investing in war, including nuclear and other weapons of mass destruction.

Unfounded criminal charges against the entire 7-member Executive Board of ITUC Turkish affiliate KESK were thrown out by the 4th High Criminal Court in Ankara on 3 March in a decision which confirms that calling for peace cannot be considered a crime under Turkish law.

The ITUC and ETUC have won promises from the Ukrainian authorities that planned new labour laws will comply with ILO standards and EU labour law and that trade unions will be consulted in the process of drafting the legislation.

The ITUC has demanded that the Hong Kong authorities drop charges against Lee Cheuk Yan, General Secretary of the Hong Kong Confederation of Trade Unions, and the other pro-democracy protesters facing criminal proceedings.

The ITUC has welcomed the release of a United Nations database of 112 companies operating in illegal Israeli settlements on Palestinian land. Scores of settlements have been set up in Palestine in flagrant defiance of international law, and businesses operating inside them are essential to their continued existence.